Respites
Robert NYC
“Some folks like to get away, take a holiday from the neighborhood, hop a flight to Miami Beach, or to Hollywood, but I'm taking a Greyhound, on the Hudson River Line, I'm in a New York state of mind...”!
Songwriter Billy Joel was onto something when he penned this popular song years ago and for a southern belle this song says a lot about how a respite to the Big Apple—NYC can put you in a good frame of mind.
I try to make my way to the city at least once a month for business, but also because for some reason I am energized and rested in a very different way each time I visit.
During a recent trip to the city, I was treated to an amazing lunch by my new friend Ken Lundie who is also from the south, but who after having spent many years redefining NYC’s Broadway, epitomizes what it means to be a New Yorker.
I was swept away to a very chic restaurant overlooking Central Park where we were seated in the absolute best seat in the house; a table near a window that literally gave a feeling of being able to reach out and caress the beautiful park and the many people who meandered below.
Situated atop the Museum of Arts and Design, Robert NYC is an absolute must if you are visiting the Big Apple. Named after a very well-known floral designer for whom the restaurant owners were inspired, upon entering the restaurant, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of modern elegance and artistic charm as a nice tribute and reminder to their late friend.
A word of caution, you cannot drop in however, reservations are required - and do plan to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening because the atmosphere and food is worth savoring. If you are fortunate enough to schedule for early evening, you will be graced by a wonderful live performance by one of many talented musical icons who might be stopping in for a spell.
During my visit, because I was the guest of Mr. Broadway himself, I was treated like royalty! To start the afternoon, we were seated in one of the best seats in the house and as a starter we ordered mimosas which were sooo good!
For lunch I ordered the tuna nicoise, which was done to perfection and accessorized nicely with baby quail eggs, fingerling potatoes and a creamy balsamic vinaigrette. As requested the dressing was served on the side and complimented the salad beautifully.
Ken selected the cobb salad which was served with a crispy poached egg as a nice twist on a traditional recipe. The salad was offered with shrimp or grilled chicken; Ken selected the chicken. Served on a lovely bed of fresh organic greens, the salad was a generous portion with a beautiful balance of color.
As a surprise we were treated with wonderful pastries which reminded you of mini donut rounds that were absolutely exquisite and simply melted in your mouth. And as if the treats alone were not enough, they were accompanied by decadent warm chocolate and caramel sauces for dipping; a mouthful of heaven indeed!
The wait staff was very pleasant and attentive and general manager, Ana Harris took a moment to stop by our table, just because...
We ended the visit with a surprise musical tribute to yours truly by Mr. Lundie of “My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean...” Talk about a perfect respite, Robert NYC, an absolute BREATHER! How good is that...
Website: http://robertnyc.com/
